Clifford Lavern Olney

Clifford LaVern Olney, 90, a lifelong Battle Creek resident died at Stoneridge AFC Home on Friday, November 14, 2014.

Clifford was born in Battle Creek on December 17, 1923 to James A. and Leona (Gates) Olney. He grew up in Battle Creek and graduated with his Battle Creek Central High School Class of 1942, via the phone, while serving in the military. Cliff was a WWII U.S. Marine, who participated in the capture and defense of Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands; and in the assault and capture of Saipan and Tinian, Marianas Islands. Cliff retired in 1986 from Consumer's Power Company, where he was employed as a lineman for 36 years.

Clifford married the former Mary Joan Caulkett on February 25, 1945 in Battle Creek. He was preceded in death by Mary, his wife of 66+ years on September 26, 2011. Surviving are his daughter, Carol J. (significant other: Michael Mooney) Rose of Battle Creek; his son, Thomas A. (Linda) Olney of Grand Rapids, MI; two grandchildren, Erica J. (Dan) Olson and Ronald J. (Jennifer) Rose and four great grandchildren, Ryley and Clay Rose, Tommy Hall and Travis Olson. In addition to his wife, Cliff was preceded in death by two brothers, Wallace and Robert Olney.

Cliff enjoyed working with tools his entire life and built two homes for his family. Daily he did crossword puzzles and enjoyed swimming in his pool. Some of the most memorable times of his life were boating and summer vacations at Torch Lake with his family and friends, for more than 30 years. He was an excellent baseball player in high school and played on the local city leagues until it was time to raise his family.

Friends will be received the hour prior to services. Funeral services will be officiated by Rev. Robert G. Muirhead 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Military honors and interment will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Care, 166 E. Goodale Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49037. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.